To help celebrate QLD Mental Health week we asked some of our Yoga and Pilates Instructors to tell us how their class can help your whole self stay healthy
“All exercise is mood enhancing because of the endorphin’s that are released through movement.
I feel that my vinyasa flow class is particularly beneficial for individuals who are suffering from anxiety and/or depression.
At the beginning of the class we talk about letting your intuition guide you throughout your practice. I discuss how to focus on your breath and stay mindful during the asana practice by keeping your focus on this present moment.
When we dwell on past events we can feel depressed and when we worry about things that are yet to happen we can feel anxiety. A mindful movement practice can assist in training your mind to remain present in this moment, even off the yoga mat.
When we bring our focus to this moment alone can we find inner peace and harmony.” – Chantelle
“Pilates is more than just a workout. Any person who’s been doing it for at least a couple of months knows that Pilates doesn’t only sculpt your body but it also clears your mind and gives you energy and inner serenity.
Most people come to a Pilates class to get a flat tummy or ease joint pains. But the most amazing part happens when clients start seeing changes not only in their bodies but also in their minds, in their emotions and in their lives altogether.
This is because Pilates requires concentration and focus as you move your body through precise ranges of motion. Pilates lengthens and stretches all the major muscle groups in your body in a balanced fashion. It requires concentration in finding a centre point to control your body through movement. Each exercise has a prescribed placement, rhythm and breathing pattern.
Benefits of this include a reduction in anxiety, stress relief, help to treat insomnia, better functioning of the nervous system and a release of feel-good hormones. Come along and try it!” – Winda
“Staying active has considerable benefits for relieving stress, anxiety and depression, and pilates offers a mindful and safe way to do this.
I find that taking the time for my own practice is important for a healthy mental state.” – Jolene
“Yoga is the Union of Body and Mind, and their connection to your Spirit.
It is a Science, not just an activity or a sport, and it has been scientifically proven that Yoga creates new pathways in the brain, and when we position our body in challenging and somewhat uncomfortable positions, the mind will begin to draw attention to that area.
Pain and discomfort will reveal memory and stories. If we allow these memories to reveal and breathe past them, we clear them and the brain will no longer retract, but ease into a new understanding of Peace and Happiness. The result is Euphoric!
Come along to any of my classes and have a chat about your own concerns, and together we can help you to work through your barriers for a happier, healthier life!”
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